Launching Autumn 2022, Smart Group in collaboration with Oceandiva, will launch the UK’s first CO2-neutral venue on the Thames which will revolutionise the luxury events and hospitality sector.

Whether moored or sailing down the Thames, the exceptional vessel will provide an impressive backdrop with flexible spaces finished to an incredibly high standard, fit for luxury events, brand activations and private celebrations.

Currently event guests may embark and disembark Oceandiva London from Butler’s Wharf, London Bridge, Tower Bridge, Canary Wharf, Greenwich and ExCel. The architecture and design of the vessel allows guests on board to experience the City, connecting guests to London’s world-renowned landmarks.

With a joint investment of over £25 million, Oceandiva London will be the largest floating events space on the Thames measuring 86m in length and 17m in breadth, perfect for lavish weddings, private cocktail parties, milestone birthdays, cultural celebrations, inside and ‘al fresco’ for up to 1,500 guests standing and 600 seated.

With sustainability at its core, Oceandiva London is committed to leading the luxury events sector in minimising the impact its activities have by utilising advanced technology and environmental practices. Oceandiva London will boast the latest marine technology featuring noise-reducing electric engines and superior soundproofing.

Designed, built and owned by Oceandiva, founded by Edwin Petersen in 2003 in the Netherlands, the ship will be the first London venture outside of mainland Europe from the group who are well established in Germany, the Netherlands and Belgium.
The trading company of Oceandiva London will be owned, managed and operated by the UK’s leading events and hospitality supplier, Smart Group, who deliver over 600 events each year from international sporting and cultural events, including Royal Ascot Village and Lord’s to corporate and charitable functions for NSPCC, Google and Adobe. Oceandiva London will follow the Groups trading pattern, specialising in business events, weddings and private events.

The ship will be catered by London’s leading caterer, Moving Venue, Smart Group’s own catering brand, which has a 38 year history and counting, who are longstanding catering partners at over 50 unique venues including Kensington Palace and the V&A .

Moving Venue will work in partnership with luxury catering company Last Supper, who were recently acquired by Smart Group, who boast an enviable portfolio of clients such as Gucci, Breitling, Sotheby’s and Mont Blanc, alongside a variety of private clientele.

Edwin Petersen, CEO, Oceandiva commented: ‘We have had great success in the Netherlands and Germany so we are incredibly excited to launch our first concept in London which we believe will be the hottest venue in the capital for the most lavish celebrations. London is undeniably one of the most attractive cities for overseas visitors and we are looking forward to hosting extraordinary celebrations on board.’

Greg Lawson, CEO, Smart Group commented: ‘We are excited to bring a stylish new events space to London, one that raises the bar for luxury venues for private celebrations. Traditionally the Mayfair hotel ballrooms have dominated this area of hospitality and Oceandiva London will provide an entirely unique alternative for the more discerning party host keen to wow their guests.’